The Perils of Praetorian "Conservatism" July 18, 2007

by Will

Will Grigg's Liberty Minute

In testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee, former White House Political Director Sara Taylor declared: "I took an oath to the president, and I take that oath very seriously."

Senator Patrick Leahy reminded Miss Taylor that she had actually taken an oath to the Constitution, not to George W. Bush or any other official. "[T]he president refers to the government being his government ? it's not," observed Leahy.

Patrick Leahy, one of the most liberal members of the Senate, articulated a principle conservatives once understood: Loyalties to any official are contingent on their obedience to our Constitution.

Teddy Roosevelt made that point in memorable fashion:

?To announce that there must be no criticism of the President, or that we are to stand by the President, right or wrong, is not only unpatriotic and servile, but is morally treasonable to the American public.?

The praetorian assumptions revealed in Miss Taylor's unguarded comments have no place in a republic ruled by law.

Let us take back the liberty wherewith Christ has made us free.

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